If you ask yourself “why does it hurt when I have sex?”, keep in mind that first of all it is convenient to distinguish between two types of discomfort: pain during penetration that occurs from time to time and pain that appears during penetration either mild or deep, but it does it constantly, which prevents you from enjoying sex normally. If the case is that you always present this type of discomfort, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist to determine the cause and treat it appropriately.
In the event that the pain is something specific and that does not always happen to you, it is advisable to know the possible causes for which it occurs. Some of the most common are:
Lack of lubrication for smooth penetration
Lubrication is necessary for sexual activity, especially for penetration, since it favors sliding, avoiding annoying friction. Its lack is a very frequent cause of pain during relationships, so if this is your case, you should not be ashamed.
There are factors, such as a lack of sexual stimulation or foreplay, that affect lubrication. To avoid pain during sex in this case, it is advisable to achieve a high level of arousal for both parties, with foreplay, such as oral sex or the use of sex toys, you can get enough lubrication for penetrations to be soft.
Keep in mind that there are also hormonal changes, such as those that can occur during pregnancy or menopause, that also affect natural lubrication. Stress and lack of concentration during the act are other conditions that can interfere with lubrication.
All these situations have a solution and you will be able to enjoy sex again if you attend to them, which is why we invite you to read our article Vaginal dryness: causes and how to alleviate it so that you can discover the alternatives according to your case.
Vaginal infections
Did you know that vaginal infections can cause pain during sex? Conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis can cause discomfort during penetration, in addition to other symptoms such as changes in the color or smell of discharge, itching of the vulva or vagina, or pain when urinating.
And the most important thing you should know is that vaginal infections are very common, in fact, it is estimated that 75% of women will suffer from a vaginal infection during our lives. Infections occur when the pH of our vagina becomes unbalanced, allowing bacteria and fungi to grow and cause us discomfort.
Therefore, if the pain during penetration is accompanied by other signs such as those mentioned above, it is important to visit the gynecologist to determine if the infection has been caused by a bacterium, fungus or virus and what is the appropriate treatment. This is especially important if this is the first time this has happened to you.
Pelvic or vaginal injuries
For example, having undergone pelvic surgery is one of the causes that can explain why it hurts when you have sex. In addition, in some cases, the discomfort is due to an episiotomy performed during childbirth.
Vaginismus, which triggers involuntary spasms in the vagina, is another condition that may be behind painful sex. Likewise, other conditions such as pelvic or uterine diseases, traumatic sexual experiences, cystitis or hemorrhoids can also be responsible for pain during intercourse.
If the pain you feel is constant and prevents you from enjoying your sexual life, make an appointment with your doctor to discover the possible cause and the necessary treatment.
How to avoid pain during sex
If the pain during penetration occurs from time to time and is not associated with any disease or injury, follow these recommendations to avoid it and enjoy sex again:
Use an intimate lubricant to enjoy the smoothest sex
There are many benefits of intimate lubricant that will help you enjoy more pleasurable penetrations, which is why it should be added to your sexual encounters. You can try our 2-in-1 massage gels, which lubricate and are ideal for erotic massages that raise the temperature of the meeting, or opt for the range of Naturals lubricants, as they are water-based, do not contain dyes or perfumes and their formula It is compatible with the vaginal pH. They work by moisturizing the area, which provides a soft and comfortable contact.
If you suspect an infection, visit the gynecologist as soon as possible
Abundant discharge with a bad smell or a different color, itching or discomfort when urinating are symptoms that make it necessary to see a professional, that is, a gynecologist because they may indicate an infection that must be treated as soon as possible.
Maintain an intimate hygiene routine that helps take care of your pH
The origin of vaginal infections is an unbalanced pH, hence the importance of following an intimate hygiene routine that keeps it balanced. To do this, we recommend following these tips:
- Use special hygiene products for the vaginal area, which help keep the pH balanced.
- Avoid douching unless directed by your doctor. It is also not recommended to wear intimate deodorants or products not formulated for this area.
- Do not remain with wet underwear on for a long time and avoid clothing that is very tight in this area.
- Opt for cotton panties because they promote perspiration.
The Durex Intima Protect range has been specially developed for the delicate intimate area, with products that help balance the vaginal pH to provide the care that this area needs. Composed of a balancing gel, a lubricant, a refreshing and soothing intimate gel, and intimate wipes, this line of proactive vaginal care products will help you control discomfort caused by loss of balance and keep the area clean.
Enjoy your body so you can enjoy sex
Relationships will be better if you know your body, so explore yourself and identify your most erogenous zones to enjoy sex as a couple.
If none of the above recommendations work or you feel pain very frequently during sexual intercourse, in a way that affects the quality of sex and the relationship with your partner, it is important that you consult a specialist.
